By now we’ve all seen the devastating footage of the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean. Beryl set the record of being the earliest category-five Atlantic hurricane in one hundred years. She ransacked her way through the Caribbean region, leaving a wake of destruction in her path with significant flooding and landfall. Floridians need to be on alert as the 2024 hurricane season is upon us, and Beryl is a preview of what is to come.
With climate change, natural disasters such as hurricanes will be more intense, threatening the infrastructure of society. As we brace for an intense hurricane season, Broward County residents need to be prepared not only for the potential hurricanes but also for the challenges that pose to water supply and conservation efforts.
Hurricanes bring heavy rainfall, flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage, all of which can disrupt water supply systems. During these times, it’s essential to conserve water to ensure enough is available for drinking, sanitation, and emergencies. Conservation also helps reduce strain on wastewater systems and minimizes environmental impacts during and after the storm.
Here are some practical tips on conserving water effectively:
- Store Emergency Water: Before hurricane season starts, store an emergency supply of water. Aim for at least one gallon per person per day for a minimum of three days, for drinking and sanitation needs.
- Fix Leaks and Drips: Inspect faucets, toilets, and outdoor hoses for leaks and repair them promptly. A small leak can waste significant amounts of water over time. A leaky faucet can water over 3,200 gallons per year!
- Take advantage of FREE faucet aerators: Faucet aerators can help you save water and money. They work by reducing water flow without compromising performance, and they also lower the amount of hot water used, reducing energy consumption for heating. Broward Water Partnership is committed to helping you save both water and money by offering free water-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators. Just reach out to your local municipalities to find out how to get these water-saving devices. Learn more here: https://conservationpays.com/check-eligibility/
- Use Water Efficiently: Be mindful of water use at all times. Take shorter showers, turn off the tap when brushing teeth or shaving, and run dishwashers and washing machines only when they are full.
- Collect Rainwater: Install rain barrels or other rainwater harvesting systems to collect water for irrigation and non-potable uses. This reduces demand on treated water supplies.
- Reuse Water: Consider using greywater (from baths, sinks, and washing machines) for outdoor purposes like watering plants and washing vehicles.
- Educate and Involve Others: Spread awareness about the importance of water conservation among family, friends, and neighbors. Encourage everyone to practice water-saving habits.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a plan in place for accessing safe water if your regular supply is disrupted. This may involve boiling water, using water purification tablets, or finding emergency distribution points.
- Stay Informed: Monitor local authorities and utilities for updates on water advisories, restrictions, or conservation measures during and after a storm.
- Conserve Water Post-Storm: Even after a hurricane passes, continue conserving water as infrastructure repairs and recovery efforts may take time.
Broward County offers resources and initiatives to help residents and businesses conserve water year-round. These include educational programs, rebates for water-efficient toilets, and guidelines for sustainable landscaping practices. Take advantage of these resources to enhance your water conservation efforts.
Water conservation during hurricane season is not just about being prepared—it’s about ensuring resilience and sustainability in the face of natural disasters. By implementing these tips and staying informed, you can contribute to water conservation efforts in Broward County while safeguarding your family and community during hurricane season and beyond. Together, let’s make each drop count!
References:
- Hurricane Beryl leaves Jamaican homes without power. BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckdg7rp7vk9o
- NOAA predicts above-normal 2024 atlantic hurricane season. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (n.d.). https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season
